As the Ukraine conflict continues to inflict devastation and displacement, with the Russian invasion being the cause, millions of Ukrainians have become refugees in their own country. In a compassionate gesture, the UK has made the decision to welcome a significant number of these refugees, and numerous households and families across the country are willingly offering to host them. Thus, the Homes for Ukraine plan was launched on March 18, 2022, allowing UK residents to provide lodging for Ukrainian individuals or families seeking refuge.
DBS requirements for British host families
In order to ensure the safety and security of the refugees, it has been clarified that DBS checks will play a critical role in this planning. Any family or individuals wishing to take part must undergo a DBS Check to prevent the inclusion of individuals with a history of criminal convictions, thereby safeguarding the well-being of the Ukrainian refugees. The DBS disclosure reviews have become a vital component of the scheme, serving to guarantee the safety and protection of the families and individuals from Ukraine upon their arrival in the country.
Types of DBS checks
The determination of the specific kind of DBS check required for the application to host Ukrainian refugees is made in consultation with the local authorities and the hosting family or individuals. In most cases, Basic and Enhanced DBS Checks are commonly requested for families and individuals who will be the hosts for the refugees from Ukraine.
Basic DBS Check
As the name suggests, Basic DBS Checks provide a basic overview of an individual’s criminal record within the UK databases. It includes information on cautions and unspent convictions in accordance with the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (ROA) 1974. This check is mandatory for all household members (16 years and above) who are sponsoring and hosting adult refugees from Ukraine.
Enhanced DBS Check
The Enhanced DBS Check is specifically required for applicants who have volunteered to care for vulnerable adults or children, as it provides a comprehensive disclosure of an individual’s criminal record. This thorough check includes information on warnings, reprimands, cautions, and both spent and unspent convictions, as well as a Barred List check if necessary. Any individual above the age of 16 who is a member of a family sponsoring Ukrainian refugees may be subject to an Enhanced DBS Check. This is particularly recommended if the refugee family includes vulnerable adults requiring additional support or children under the age of 18 who will be residing with the host family.
DBS checks payments
Prior to the implementation of the Home for Ukraine scheme, employers and individuals seeking job positions were responsible for submitting the necessary details and making payments for DBS checks, depending on the level of checks required.
Under the Home for Ukraine scheme, the cost of DBS checks for individuals participating in the scheme will be covered by the local council in their respective area. This initiative aims to make the scheme more accessible for households and families willing to sponsor refugees fleeing the conflict in Ukraine.
Sponsors Getting DBS clearance
Individuals or families in the UK who are interested in sponsoring Ukrainian refugees can contact their local councils to receive guidance on the process of applying for an Enhanced DBS check. The local councils will provide thorough instructions and support to facilitate the clearance process.
